Symptoms of STIs

The symptoms of an STI vary, depending on the type of infection. However, most STIs are treatable if detected early enough. If you think you may have an infection, it is important to visit your local family planning clinic or genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic as soon as possible.

If left untreated, STIs are not only uncomfortable and embarrassing, but they can seriously affect your health and fertility.

Preventing STIs

You can prevent catching STIs during oral sex by making sure that you or your partner wear a condom.

You can use a dental dam to cover the anus or female genitals during oral sex. A dental dam is a latex or polyurethane (very thin, soft plastic) square, of about 15cm by 15cm. It acts as a barrier to help prevent STIs passing from one person to another.